The premium-cable network snatched the project after a bidding war with Apple and has given a straight-to-series order.
With the project, the HBO has expanded its collaboration with the "Star Trek" director who also serves as the executive producer on the show "Westworld", according to The Hollywood Reporter.
It is described as an epic and intimate sci-fi fantasy drama that deals with the world's battle against a monstrous, oppressive force.
Abrams will write the pilot and serve as executive producer, alongside Ben Stephenson, who runs the TV division of Abrams' production company Bad Robot.
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